Scenic Flights in Australia: Where Are the Best Views?

If there’s one thing Australia does better than almost anywhere else, it’s epic landscapes. From coral reefs and swirling white sands to ancient rainforests and dramatic coastlines, the scale of this country is next level. And while road trips and boat tours are amazing, nothing compares to seeing it all from above. Scenic flights are hands down one of the most unforgettable experiences you can have while travelling Australia. Here are two of the absolute best places to take to the skies.

@peterpanstravel Cairns vs Airlie Beach scenic flight - what’s the difference?! ✈️🌏✨ Flying from Cairns, gives you incredible views of the Great Barrier Reef, where as flying from Airlie has breathtaking views of the Whitsundays (& the iconic heart reef!!!). Looking to book one of these incredible tours? DM us 💛💛 #travel #solotravel #australia #australiatravel #scenicflight ♬ As It Was - Instrumental - KPH

✈️ The Whitsundays – 60 Minute Scenic Flight

A 60 minute scenic flight over the Whitsundays is easily one of the most iconic air experiences in Australia. Departing from Airlie Beach, you’ll soar over 74 tropical islands, fly above the world-famous Whitehaven Beach, and witness the swirling silica sands of Hill Inlet from a bird’s-eye view. The real showstopper? Flying over the heart-shaped Heart Reef in the Great Barrier Reef. Seeing these vibrant blues and reef patterns from above is something photos simply don’t do justice. It’s the perfect option if you’re short on time but still want that bucket-list reef experience without getting wet. BOOK NOW!

✈️ Cairns – Scenic Flight from Cairns

Up in Tropical North Queensland, a scenic flight is an incredible way to experience the region’s natural contrasts. Departing from Cairns, you’ll fly over the lush green canopy of the ancient Daintree Rainforest, cruise along the coastline, and see where the reef meets the rainforest in one of the only places on Earth where two World Heritage sites sit side by side. From above, you can truly appreciate the scale of the landscape — winding rivers, untouched beaches, coral reefs and dense jungle all in one unforgettable flight. It’s a must-do for nature lovers wanting something a little different from the usual boat tour. BOOK NOW!

Why Book a Scenic Flight in Australia?

If you’re searching for the best scenic flights in Australia, Great Barrier Reef scenic flights, Whitsundays helicopter tours, Airlie Beach scenic flights, or Cairns rainforest flights, these experiences consistently rank as top bucket-list activities on the East Coast. Travellers looking for aerial tours over the Great Barrier Reef, Heart Reef flights, Whitehaven Beach scenic tours, and Daintree Rainforest flights will find these options offer unbeatable panoramic views, professional pilots, and incredible photo opportunities. Whether you’re planning an East Coast Australia itinerary, a backpacking adventure, or a once-in-a-lifetime holiday, adding a scenic flight tour in Queensland is one of the most highly recommended experiences for 2026 and beyond.

Interested in something a little bit different? Why not check out our range of Helicopter tours aswell?